Colorado Avalanche Captures Three Cars Near Copper Mountain

Three cars were buried under the snow on Highway 91 between Leadville and Copper Mountain yesterday (Thurs. Mar. 8). This has been one of the worst avalanche seasons in recent history continues. So far over 2,000 avalanches have occurred with 288 coming in the last week.

An avalanche left 15 feet of snow across the road and, while the occupants were able to get out safely, the cars did not have the same fate.

So what do you do if your car, and you, end up buried in an avalanche?

Probably the best thing you can do is stay in your car if the avalanche is still coming down the mountain. The last thing you want to do is get out of your car and end up swept away by the same force that pushed your car aside and covered it.

If you packed blankets in the car prior to your trip get busy using them. Keeping warm during this time will be very important. Letting the engine run could cause carbon monoxide to fill the vehicle. Keeping the engine off could save your life.

Check for injuries. If there are any treat accordingly. And let's hope you have a first aid kit in your vehicle.

These things will keep you safe until help arrives or conditions finally warrant you getting out of your vehicle.